Originally published October 7, 2014 in the Winnipeg Free Press
Have you ever wanted to sit in on a Toastmaster meeting to see how such a positive experience could take place in one meeting? Now’s your chance! In celebration of Toastmasters International 90th Anniversary, we are designating the month of October as Open House month. Join us in Manitoba and NW Ontario to hear special speakers, experience impromptu speaking and have tons of fun.
You may be wondering why we are so excited about a 90-year-old organization. Here’s why! Toastmasters International, the global organization devoted to communication and leadership skills development, announced record growth over the past year, with a 7.3 percent increase in membership, a 17.2 percent increase in new clubs and a presence in
126 countries. The results mark 21 consecutive years of growth. That relates to 313,000 members worldwide and more than 1500 members in our area. There are not many volunteer organizations that can show such consistent growth.
“We have a number of initiatives underway, including expanding our presence in corporations and modernizing our education program, that will continue to make us relevant to a new generation of professionals,” says Toastmasters Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex. “These initiatives are supported by the efforts of leaders all over the world who volunteer their time and expertise.”
As District 64 Governor for 2014-2015 I have seen people join Toastmasters with varying skills. From a young woman who couldn’t say her name without crying, to professional speakers who joined to benefit from the feedback we provide at every meeting, and everyone in-between. All can benefit from this self-directed program, supported by members and given encouragement along the way. To hear more comments about Toastmasters, please go to http://youtu.be/WxAV39ySH2A
There are Toastmasters meetings every day of the week (day and evening) in Manitoba and North-West Ontario that would welcome you. Go to www.toastmasters.org/findaclub or call 204-338-7401 to find out more. No experience necessary.
Dorian Guerard, DTM
DISTRICT 64 GOVERNOR
www.toastmasters.org
Ph. 204-338-7401
facebook.com/toastmastersmb
@D64TM